UK Tourist Visa

To visit the UK as a tourist, your entry pathway depends entirely on your nationality. Most travelers require either an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) or a Standard Visitor Visa.

1. Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)

If you hold a passport from an ETA-eligible country (including the US, EU/EEA, Canada, Australia, and select Gulf states), you do not need a full visa for stays under 6 months.

• Cost: £20

• Validity: Valid for 2 years (or until passport expiry), allowing multiple entries of up to 6 months per visit.

• How to Apply: Apply via the official "UK ETA app" or on GOV.UK 3 to 4 days before traveling.

2. Standard Visitor Visa

If your passport is from a visa-required country (such as India, China, South Africa, etc.), you must apply for a standard visa prior to traveling.

Key DetailsVisa SpecificationsValidity - Standard option lasts 6 months. (Long-term options available for 2, 5, or 10 years, permitting max 6 months per visit).

Standard Fee£135

Application Window - Earliest to apply is 3 months before your intended travel date.

Processing Time - Standard processing takes ~3 weeks after biometrics submission.

Key Documents Required:

• Valid passport with at least one blank page.

• Proof of funds showing you can support your travel, accommodation, and stay (e.g., bank statements, payslips).

• Travel itinerary (flight/hotel details; pre-booked flights are not required before approval).

• Proof of ties to your home country (employment letter, property documents, or family obligations) to confirm you intend to return.

Application Process:

1. Fill out the application form on the official GOV.UK website.

2. Pay the application fee (£135) online.

3. Book and attend an appointment at a local Visa Application Centre (VFS Global or TLScontact) to submit biometrics (fingerprints and photograph)